No fatalities

Engine failure leads to aircraft crash near Ashiya Air Base (52-5921)

Ashiya AFB, JapanTakeoff (climb)

On December 6, 1954, a Fairchild C-119 Flying Boxcar (registration 52-5921) operated by United States Air Force - USAF (since 1947) was involved in an aviation accident near Ashiya AFB, Japan during takeoff. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The loss of engine power during the climb phase caused the aircraft to stall and crash. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 8 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Primary reportUpdated 2026-06-12Data APIEditorial standards

An aircraft crashed into the sea approximately 9 km north of Ashiya Air Base following an engine malfunction during its initial climb.

What happened

During a flight departing from Ashiya AFB, an aircraft experienced a critical mechanical issue shortly after beginning its ascent. While the plane was in its climbing phase, the propulsion system failed, leading to an aerodynamic stall.

Following the loss of power, the aircraft descended into the ocean at a location situated roughly 9 km north of the airfield. Despite the impact with the water, all individuals on board were successfully rescued from the wreckage. The aircraft subsequently sank and is currently considered lost.

Findings

  • The primary factor in the accident was an engine failure occurring during the takeoff and climb sequence.

Probable cause

The loss of engine power during the climb phase caused the aircraft to stall and crash.